Hosea Ernest Dyson, Jr.

Hosea Ernest Dyson, Jr., was a proud and deeply devoted United States Marine whose love for the Corp and its values of honor, courage, and commitment shaped the way he lived his entire life, the beloved husband of Dorothy "Mike" Hawkins was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 15, 1946. He was the only son of the late Hosea and Ethel Dyson. He departed his life peacefully on August 18, 2026, in Fort Washington, MD.

He was raised in Chicago, where he graduated from Englewood High School before answering the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corp. Hosea proudly served during the Vietnam War, beginning a lifetime defined by service, courage, and commitment to others.

Following his honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corp, Hosea continued his life of public service by joining the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served his community with dedication and integrity, ultimately serving as a homicide detective. After 24 years of service, Hosea retired from the Metropolitan Police Department, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to justice and to the people he served.

While building his life and career, Hosea met the love of his life, Dorothy “Mike” Hawkins, on a blind date. What began as a chance introduction grew into an extraordinary love story. Their bond was so special that one wedding simply was not enough. Hosea and Mike chose each other in marriage not once, but twice, reaffirming a love and commitment that would remain steadfast throughout their lives. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, friendship, laughter, and countless memories.

Retirement from the Metropolitan Police Department did not mark the end of Hosea’s commitment to serving others. He continued his public service with Prince George’s County Public Schools as a substitute teacher and later served Prince George’s County as a background investigator. Through each chapter of his career, Hosea remained dedicated to his community and to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Outside of his professional life, Hosea embraced life with curiosity and adventure. He enjoyed computers, electronics, and photography, always interested in the latest technology and capturing special moments. He loved traveling with family and friends, whether swimming, snorkeling, or trying something new along the way. Hosea also had a passion for cooking and spent many weekends alongside his “Chef’s Crew” preparing meals for family and friends. Hosea found joy in life’s experiences and, most of all, in sharing them with the people he loved.

At the center of all he did was his love for his family, and fatherhood was an important part of his life; he was blessed with his only daughter, Shenee Dyson.

Hosea lived a full and meaningful life—one marked by service to his country and community, devotion to his family, enduring love for Mike, and a spirit of adventure that carried him wherever life led. He will be remembered not only for the work he did, but for the love he gave, the lives he touched, the memories he created, and the joy he brought to those fortunate enough to know him.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Dorothy "Mike" Hawkins; his daughter, Shenee Dyson; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. His life was defined by service, family, love, and adventure a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Friends may visit with the family Monday, August 31st from 10 am until time of funeral service at 11am in The Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, 3439 Livingston Road Indian Head, MD 20640. Interment private.